President Duterte promotes peaceful resolution to any conflict with country

MANILA — The Philippines is the country that mainly promotes good ties with other countries.

This was the statement made by President Rodrigo Duterte in his speech at Pila, Bataan as the gallantry of Filipinos who sacrificed their lives during the war in 1942.

The President said he stands firm that there must be a peaceful resolve to any conflict with the country.

“No matter the spoils, war is never worth it. The reasons of aggression against the occupation of nations should not be countenanced. This is why the Philippines continues to articulate our principled position that disputes should be settled in a peaceful manner. This is a responsibility of all states – great or small, strong or weak. As responsible members of the international community, this is our sacred duty,” he said.

The President cited as an example the good ties between the Philippines and Japan which in 1942 were at war during the World War II.

President Duterte is also determined to further strengthen the ties among countries led by the Philippines this year at the ASEAN.

Recently, China was alarmed by President Duterte’s statement when he directed the Armed Forces of the Philippines to occupy all island territories of the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea.

Malacañan clarified that the Philippines remains committed to improving ties with other countries.

Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said President Duterte only wanted to assure the safety and good condition of Filipinos living on the islands already occupied.

It is expected that in May, the Philippines and China will meet for bilateral talks on maritime dispute in the South China Sea. — Rosalie Coz | UNTV News & Rescue